Hillcrest Orchard: The Heart of Sugarcreek, Ohio’s Amish Country
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sugarcreek, Ohio—often called the “Little Switzerland of Ohio”—Hillcrest Orchard is more than just an apple farm. It’s a beloved destination where tradition, family, and community come together in a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage. Whether you’re visiting in the crisp days of autumn or during the blossoming spring, Hillcrest Orchard offers a quintessential Amish Country experience that delights visitors of all ages.
A Family Tradition Rooted in the Land
Founded over half a century ago, Hillcrest Orchard remains a family-run operation, with generations working side by side to tend the trees, press cider, and welcome guests. The orchard spans acres of gently sloping land, with rows of apple, peach, and pear trees stretching as far as the eye can see. In the heart of Amish Country, the farm’s commitment to sustainable, hands-on agriculture is evident in every detail.
“We’ve always believed in working with the land, not against it,” says Eli Miller, a member of the Hillcrest family. “Our orchard is a place where families can make memories, and where the fruit tastes just a little sweeter because of the care that goes into growing it.”
Hilcrest Orchard
The Orchard Experience: More Than Just Apples
A visit to Hillcrest Orchard is a sensory delight. In the fall, the air is filled with the scent of ripe apples and fresh-pressed cider. Guests are invited to pick their own fruit, wander the orchard trails, and sample homemade treats in the farm market.
Highlights of the Hillcrest Experience:
Pick-Your-Own Apples: From late August through October, visitors can stroll through the orchard and fill their baskets with a variety of apples, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and Jonagold.
Cider Pressing: Watch as apples are turned into fresh, unfiltered cider using traditional methods. Tastings are encouraged!
Bakery Delights: The on-site bakery serves up Amish-style pies, apple fritters, and cinnamon rolls—favorites among locals and tourists alike.
Family Activities: Hayrides, corn mazes, and seasonal festivals make Hillcrest a hub of family fun throughout the year.
“Every fall, we bring our kids for apple picking and cider donuts,” shares local resident Sarah Yoder. “It’s become a family tradition, and the staff always make us feel right at home.”
Voices from the Community
The spirit of Hillcrest Orchard is best captured in the words of those who know it best.
Amish Community Member, Miriam Troyer:
“Hillcrest is a blessing to our area. They respect the land and the people. Many of us work together during harvest, and it feels like a big family gathering.”
Local Business Owner, John Steiner (Steiner’s Cheese Chalet):
“We’ve partnered with Hillcrest for years. Their apples are the best in the region, and we use them in our signature apple cheese strudel. Visitors love the collaboration between our businesses.”
Visitor from Cleveland, Mark Reynolds:
“I came for the apples, but I stayed for the atmosphere. There’s a sense of peace here you don’t find in the city. The cider is the best I’ve ever had.”
Local Businesses: The Amish Country Connection
Hillcrest Orchard is part of a thriving network of local businesses that make Sugarcreek a must-visit destination.
Business Name
Specialty
Connection to Hillcrest Orchard
Steiner’s Cheese Chalet
Swiss & Amish-style cheeses
Uses Hillcrest apples in bakery and cheese items
Dutch Valley Restaurant
Amish home cooking
Features Hillcrest produce in seasonal dishes
Walnut Creek Foods
Bulk foods, deli, and bakery
Sells Hillcrest cider and baked goods
Baltic Mill Winery
Locally crafted wines
Offers apple wine made with Hillcrest apples
Sugarcreek Farmers’ Market
Local produce and crafts
Hillcrest is a regular vendor
These collaborations showcase the best of Amish Country’s farm-to-table ethos, where quality and community go hand in hand.
The Orchard Through the Seasons
Spring
Blossoms blanket the trees, and the orchard comes alive with bees and birds. Guided tours explain pollination and sustainable farming.
Summer
Peaches and early apples ripen. Families picnic under the trees and enjoy wagon rides.
Fall
The busiest season! Apple picking, cider pressing, and the annual Harvest Festival draw crowds from across Ohio.
Winter
The farm market remains open, offering fresh-pressed cider, jams, and baked goods. The orchard’s peaceful beauty is perfect for quiet walks.
The Hillcrest Harvest Festival
Each October, Hillcrest hosts its famous Harvest Festival—a celebration of the season with live bluegrass music, craft vendors, and Amish food stalls. Children enjoy pony rides and pumpkin painting, while adults savor apple butter demonstrations and sample local wines.
“The festival is the highlight of our year,” says Anna Miller, event coordinator. “It’s a time when the whole community comes together to celebrate the harvest and our shared traditions.”
Sustainability and Stewardship
Hillcrest Orchard is committed to responsible farming. The family uses integrated pest management, organic fertilizers, and crop rotation to maintain soil health and protect local wildlife. Rainwater collection and solar panels help reduce environmental impact.
“Our goal is to leave the land better than we found it,” explains Eli Miller. “We want future generations to enjoy this orchard as much as we do.”
Planning Your Visit
Location: Just outside Sugarcreek, Ohio, with easy access from State Route 39.
Hours: Open daily from 9am to 6pm (seasonal variations apply).
Tours: Guided group tours available by reservation.
Accessibility: Family-friendly, with accessible paths and picnic areas.
Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the freshest bakery items and a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrive.
Aroostook County’s Amish Community Draws Crowds With Fresh Pizza and Ice Cream
Aroostook County, Maine, is experiencing a surge of interest in its Amish-owned businesses, especially along a bustling stretch of Route 2A in Smyrna. The latest additions—a wood-fired artisan pizza stand and a homemade raw milk ice cream vendor—are drawing Mainers from across the region, eager to sample innovative, locally sourced foods.
At the heart of this culinary movement is The Back 40 Farm Market, a retail hub showcasing the Smyrna Amish community’s handcrafted offerings. Shoppers can find an array of goods, including fresh meats, cheeses, dairy, baked treats, and canned jams, all produced by the 26 Amish families who call Smyrna Mills home. These families support each other’s enterprises, which range from general stores and meat processing plants to storage building businesses and farm markets79.
The new pizza venture is run by siblings Leona and Milan Frantz, both in their early 20s. Every Saturday, they set up under a tent outside The Back 40, serving made-to-order pizzas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Leona mills flour from local grains within 24 hours of baking, creating a light wheat sourdough crust that rises overnight for optimal flavor and texture. The pizzas are cooked in a portable wood-fired oven that reaches temperatures up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing each pie to bake in just two to three minutes. Toppings include house-made spiced tomato paste, shredded mozzarella and provolone, and farm-fresh peppers and pepperoni. The Frantz siblings also offer iced coffee and strawberry kombucha, the latter brewed by their mother7.
Meanwhile, Kenneth Miller, another member of the Amish community, has launched an ice cream stand just steps away. Using locally sourced raw milk, Miller crafts vanilla and strawberry ice cream, which he churns and freezes with the help of a vintage 1935 John Deere engine. The process relies on a traditional salt-and-ice method, with ice harvested from winter ponds and stored in thick-walled freezers built by the Amish. Miller’s innovative setup can freeze a batch of ice cream in about 20 minutes, delighting customers with creamy, old-fashioned scoops served in waffle and regular cones7.
These businesses are thriving thanks to a growing demand for fresh, locally produced foods across Maine. On weekends, The Back 40 often sells out of produce and baked goods, while lines for pizza and ice cream stretch well into the afternoon. Both the Frantz siblings and Miller plan to keep their operations running through summer and into early fall, continuing to showcase the ingenuity and community spirit that define Smyrna’s Amish population79.
Amish Communities Embrace Electric Bicycles: Tradition Meets Innovation
In a surprising twist on tradition, Amish communities across Iowa, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are increasingly adopting electric bicycles as a practical mode of transportation. Once synonymous with horse-drawn buggies and a steadfast avoidance of modern technology, the Amish are now quietly integrating e-bikes into daily life, with these vehicles often seen parked by barns or gliding along rural roads under the guidance of Amish riders123.
Navigating Tradition and Modernity
The Amish are well-known for their careful approach to technology, typically steering clear of devices with plugs, screens, or engines. However, e-bikes are finding acceptance in places where one might least expect it. The key lies in the decentralized nature of Amish governance: each community sets its own standards, balancing tradition with practical needs. While some groups remain cautious, others have determined that electric bicycles can actually serve their cultural values by fostering self-reliance and reducing dependence on the outside world124.
Solar Power and Self-Sufficiency
Not all Amish communities reject electricity outright. Those that permit its use often favor solar-generated power produced within the community, avoiding reliance on external utilities. This preference aligns perfectly with e-bikes, which require only modest amounts of electricity and can be charged via solar panels installed on homes, barns, or community charging stations. In some areas, public e-bike charging points powered by solar energy are becoming a common sight1567.
From Kick Scooters to E-Bikes
Traditionally, some Amish have used kick scooters or pedal bicycles to get around. Now, electric bicycles and even tricycles are being built in local workshops, reflecting a spirit of ingenuity and adaptation. The shift is especially noticeable in communities that have historically allowed bicycles, with some Amish-run bike shops—like E-Bikes of Holmes County in Ohio—catering specifically to this growing demand189.
The Practical Appeal
For many Amish, the appeal of e-bikes is rooted in practicality. Riding an electric bicycle is much quicker and less labor-intensive than harnessing a horse and buggy. E-bikes also offer a cost-effective alternative to hiring drivers for longer trips, a common but expensive practice since Amish rules often prohibit owning or operating cars. Commuting to work, running errands, or visiting neighbors has become easier and more efficient, with some individuals traveling several miles daily on their e-bikes—distances that would have otherwise required outside help or simply not been feasible23.
Diverse Opinions and Ongoing Debate
Despite the growing popularity of e-bikes, acceptance is far from universal. Opinions vary sharply between—and even within—Amish communities. Some leaders see e-bikes as a balanced tool that preserves accessibility while upholding core values of faith, family, and community. Others worry that embracing such modern technology could erode the very fabric of Amish identity and tradition. The debate continues, mirroring the broader diversity of thought and practice within Amish society12.
A New Niche for Simple Living
Ultimately, e-bikes are carving out a unique role in Amish life. By offering a low-cost, low-emission way to travel greater distances without abandoning essential values, these electric vehicles demonstrate that technology, when thoughtfully integrated, can simplify rather than complicate life. For the Amish, the adoption of e-bikes is not a contradiction, but a testament to their ability to adapt without losing sight of what matters most23.
Discovering Southern New Jersey’s New Amish Community: Tradition, Craftsmanship, and Local Charm
Southern New Jersey, known for its picturesque farmlands, charming small towns, and vibrant coastal culture, has recently welcomed a new Amish community that is quickly becoming a unique and fascinating part of the region’s tapestry. This emerging settlement, located near the town of Bridgeton, offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience authentic Amish traditions, craftsmanship, and hospitality in an area not typically associated with Amish life. As the community grows, it is forging strong connections with locals and businesses, creating a vibrant cultural exchange that enriches the entire region.
A New Chapter for Amish Life in Southern New Jersey
The Amish families who have settled near Bridgeton come primarily from established communities in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Drawn by the availability of affordable farmland and the peaceful rural environment, they chose southern New Jersey as a place to build a new life rooted in faith, family, and simplicity. The community currently comprises about 30 families, with plans for steady growth in the coming years.
Jacob, a community elder, explains the choice:
“We were looking for good land and a welcoming place to raise our children. Southern New Jersey has both, and the people here have been very kind. We’re grateful to be part of this community.”
Local resident and farmer Susan shares her thoughts:
“At first, we didn’t know much about the Amish settling nearby, but now they’re neighbors and friends. Their work ethic and values remind us of the importance of community and tradition.”
Embracing Amish Traditions in a New Setting
Life in southern New Jersey presents both familiar and new challenges for the Amish. The region’s climate, with its humid summers and mild winters, differs from the cooler conditions they experienced in Pennsylvania. However, the fertile soil and access to local markets have allowed them to maintain their agricultural lifestyle, growing vegetables, raising livestock, and producing dairy products.
Community member Rebecca describes their adaptation:
“We’ve learned to work with the seasons here and have found that the soil is very good for our crops. Our farms are small but productive, and we take pride in caring for the land.”
The Amish continue to live without electricity and modern technology, relying on horse-drawn buggies and traditional tools. Their homes and barns are built by hand, reflecting craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Local Businesses Flourish with Amish Collaboration
The presence of the Amish has had a positive impact on local businesses, fostering new partnerships and opportunities for both the Amish and their neighbors.
Bridgeton Farmers’ Market This popular market now features a dedicated Amish section, where visitors can purchase fresh produce, homemade baked goods, jams, and pickles. The market’s manager, Linda, notes:
“Our Amish vendors bring a wonderful authenticity to the market. Their products are always fresh and made with care, and customers love supporting their families.”
Southern Jersey Woodworks A local woodworking shop has partnered with Amish craftsmen to create custom furniture and home décor. Owner Mike explains:
“The Amish are masters of woodworking. Collaborating with them has allowed us to offer unique pieces that blend traditional techniques with local style.”
Bayview Dairy This family-run dairy farm supplies milk, butter, and cheese to stores throughout southern New Jersey. They have recently begun working with Amish farmers to expand their product line and improve sustainable practices.
Heritage Tours NJ Recognizing growing interest in Amish culture, Heritage Tours now offers guided visits to the community, including farm tours, craft demonstrations, and opportunities to purchase goods directly from Amish families.
The Visitor Experience: Authentic Amish Hospitality
Visitors to the southern New Jersey Amish community are welcomed with warmth and simplicity. While the Amish maintain their privacy and traditions—photography is discouraged, and modesty is respected—they are happy to share their crafts, food, and way of life with curious guests.
Guided tours provide an intimate look at Amish farms, workshops, and homes. Guests can watch artisans at work, sample homemade pies and breads, and purchase handmade quilts, furniture, and baskets. Seasonal events, such as harvest festivals and craft fairs, offer lively opportunities to experience Amish music, food, and fellowship.
Local visitor Rachel shares her experience:
“Spending a day in the Amish community was eye-opening. The food was delicious, the crafts were beautiful, and the people were incredibly kind. It’s a wonderful escape from city life.”
The Impact on Southern New Jersey’s Cultural Landscape
The Amish community’s arrival has enriched southern New Jersey’s cultural fabric. Their emphasis on sustainable farming, craftsmanship, and family values resonates with many locals seeking a slower, more mindful way of life. Collaborative efforts between Amish and non-Amish farmers promote organic practices and soil conservation, while joint markets and fairs strengthen community ties.
Jacob reflects on this growing partnership:
“We are learning from our neighbors, and they are learning from us. Together, we are building a community that respects tradition and embraces the future.”
Looking Ahead: Growth and Integration
The future of the Amish community near Bridgeton looks promising. Plans are underway to expand the farmers’ market presence, build a community center, and host larger cultural events that celebrate both Amish and southern New Jersey traditions. As more families join the settlement, the bonds between Amish and local residents are expected to deepen, fostering a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.
Nestled in the rolling hills of New York’s Hudson Valley, a new Amish community is quietly transforming the landscape and the local culture. While New York has long been home to established Amish settlements in the western and northern regions, this recent arrival near the small town of Millbrook marks a bold step for Amish families seeking new opportunities and a fresh start in an area more known for apple orchards, artists, and historic estates than for horse-drawn buggies and plain dress. The result is a unique blend of tradition and innovation that is drawing curiosity, admiration, and visitors from across the state.
A New Beginning in the Hudson Valley
The new Amish community near Millbrook was founded just two years ago by a group of families from Pennsylvania and Ohio. Drawn by the region’s rich farmland, scenic beauty, and welcoming spirit, these families have established a thriving settlement that already numbers over 40 households. Their presence is unmistakable: black buggies clip-clop along winding country roads, and tidy white farmhouses dot the hillsides, surrounded by lush vegetable gardens and fields of corn and hay.
Samuel, one of the community’s elders, explains the move:
“We wanted a place where our children could grow up close to the land and where we could work together as a community. The Hudson Valley has given us good soil and good neighbors. We are grateful for the chance to build something new here.”
Local Voices: Welcoming the Amish
The arrival of the Amish has sparked interest and goodwill among longtime residents and newcomers alike. Local business owner Maria, who runs a café in downtown Millbrook, shares her perspective:
“At first, people were surprised to see the buggies and the bonnets, but now the Amish are part of the fabric of our town. They bring a sense of peace and purpose that’s contagious. Their baked goods and produce have become staples at our farmers’ market.”
Another resident, Tom, who manages a nearby orchard, notes:
“The Amish have shown us new ways to care for the land. Their farming methods are sustainable and respectful of nature. We’ve started collaborating on workshops about organic practices, and it’s been a learning experience for everyone.”
Amish Enterprise: Local Businesses Flourish
The entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish is evident in the small businesses they have established, which are quickly becoming attractions in their own right.
Millbrook Amish Market Located just outside town, this bustling market offers fresh produce, homemade jams, pickles, cheeses, and baked goods. On Saturdays, the scent of warm cinnamon rolls and fresh bread draws crowds from across the county. The market also features handmade quilts, baskets, and wooden toys, all crafted by local Amish artisans.
Hudson Valley Furniture & Crafts A cooperative workshop where Amish woodworkers create heirloom-quality furniture using traditional joinery and local hardwoods. The showroom is open to visitors, who can watch craftsmen at work and place custom orders for everything from rocking chairs to dining tables.
Sunrise Dairy This family-run dairy farm supplies milk, butter, and cheese to local stores and restaurants. Visitors can tour the farm, meet the cows, and sample fresh products. The dairy’s homemade ice cream, churned by hand, has quickly become a summer favorite.
Heritage Tours of Millbrook Recognizing the growing interest in Amish culture, a local tour company now offers guided excursions that visit Amish farms, shops, and homes. Tours include opportunities to learn about Amish beliefs, farming methods, and daily life, as well as to purchase goods directly from the source.
The Visitor Experience: A Step Back in Time
A visit to the Millbrook Amish community is like stepping into another era. The pace is slower, the air is fresher, and the sense of community is palpable. Visitors are encouraged to respect Amish customs—no photography, please—but are warmly welcomed to explore the markets, shops, and farms.
One visitor from New York City, Lisa, shares her impressions:
“It’s amazing how peaceful it feels here. The food is incredible, and the people are so friendly. I bought a quilt and some homemade apple butter, and I can’t wait to come back.”
Workshops in quilting, bread baking, and woodworking are offered throughout the year, providing hands-on experiences for those eager to learn traditional skills. Seasonal festivals celebrate the harvest and showcase Amish music, crafts, and cuisine, drawing crowds from across the region.
The Impact: Tradition Meets Innovation
The Amish have brought new energy to Millbrook and the surrounding area. Their emphasis on sustainable agriculture, craftsmanship, and community has inspired local residents and businesses to adopt similar practices. Collaborative projects between Amish and non-Amish farmers are improving soil health and crop yields, while joint craft fairs and farmers’ markets are strengthening community bonds.
Rebecca, an Amish mother of five, reflects on the changes:
“We are learning from our neighbors, just as they are learning from us. It’s a blessing to share our way of life and to be part of this beautiful place.”
Looking Forward: A Growing Community
The future looks bright for the Millbrook Amish community. Plans are underway to expand the market, build a new schoolhouse, and host larger festivals that celebrate both Amish and Hudson Valley traditions. As more families arrive and the community grows, the bonds between Amish and their neighbors are expected to deepen, creating a model of cooperation and respect that benefits everyone.
A Taste of Tradition: Discovering Boston’s New Amish Restaurant and Community Connection
In the bustling heart of New England, just outside Boston, Massachusetts, a new culinary experience is unfolding—one that brings the warmth and authenticity of Amish tradition to the doorstep of the city. The recent opening of Hearty Hearth, a new Amish-inspired restaurant in the charming suburb of Lexington, is captivating locals and visitors alike with its commitment to homemade comfort food, community spirit, and genuine hospitality. This unique establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s a bridge between the fast-paced urban world and the timeless values of Amish life.
Bringing Amish Tradition to Greater Boston
Hearty Hearth is the vision of a small group of Amish families who recently relocated to Massachusetts from established communities in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Drawn by the region’s strong emphasis on local agriculture, history, and education, these families sought to share their culinary heritage and craftsmanship with a wider audience. The restaurant is housed in a lovingly restored colonial-era building, blending New England’s architectural charm with the simplicity and warmth of Amish design.
The menu at Hearty Hearth is a celebration of Amish classics: from homemade chicken pot pie and savory roast beef to fresh-baked bread, shoofly pie, and hand-churned butter. All dishes are prepared from scratch using ingredients sourced from local farms and the Amish community’s own garden plots, ensuring both quality and authenticity.
Voices from the Community
The arrival of Hearty Hearth has sparked enthusiasm and curiosity among Boston-area residents and visitors.
A Local Food Enthusiast Shares:
“I’ve always been fascinated by Amish culture, but I never expected to find an Amish restaurant so close to Boston. The food is incredible—true comfort food made with love and care. It’s like stepping into another world for a meal,” says Emily, a Lexington resident and regular customer.
An Amish Community Member Reflects:
“We wanted to create a place where people could experience the warmth and generosity of Amish hospitality. The support from the community has been overwhelming, and we’re grateful for the chance to share our traditions,” shares Miriam, one of the founding members of Hearty Hearth.
A Local Business Owner Comments:
“The opening of Hearty Hearth has brought a new energy to our neighborhood. It’s wonderful to see people coming together over food that’s made with such respect for tradition and community,” says David, owner of a nearby bookstore.
Local Businesses and the Amish Connection
The presence of Hearty Hearth has fostered new partnerships and opportunities for local businesses, creating a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration and support.
Lexington Farmers’ Market Hearty Hearth sources much of its produce, dairy, and eggs from local farmers who sell at the Lexington Farmers’ Market. This partnership ensures that diners enjoy the freshest ingredients while supporting sustainable agriculture in the region.
The Colonial Bakery Located just a few blocks from Hearty Hearth, The Colonial Bakery has partnered with the restaurant to offer a selection of Amish-inspired baked goods, including pies, breads, and cookies. The bakery’s owner, Sarah, notes:
“Working with Hearty Hearth has been a wonderful experience. Their recipes are authentic, and our customers love the new additions to our menu.”
Concord Crafts Collective A cooperative of local artisans, Concord Crafts Collective now features handmade Amish quilts, pottery, and woodenware in their shop. The collective’s director, Laura, remarks:
“The Amish are known for their craftsmanship, and it’s been a privilege to showcase their work alongside that of other local artists.”
Minuteman Tours A local tour company, Minuteman Tours, now offers guided excursions that include a stop at Hearty Hearth, giving visitors a taste of Amish cuisine and culture as part of their New England experience.
The Dining Experience: Authentic Amish Hospitality
Dining at Hearty Hearth is an invitation to slow down and savor the moment. The restaurant’s open kitchen allows guests to watch as cooks prepare meals using traditional techniques and recipes passed down through generations. Family-style seating encourages conversation and connection, reflecting the communal spirit of Amish life.
The menu changes with the seasons, highlighting the best of what local farms have to offer. Breakfast features hearty staples like scrapple, pancakes, and farm-fresh eggs, while lunch and dinner bring comforting classics such as roast beef with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, and homemade pies for dessert.
A visitor from Cambridge, Mark, shares his experience:
“I came for the food, but I stayed for the sense of community. Everyone is so friendly, and the food is like something my grandmother used to make. It’s a real treat.”
The Impact on Boston’s Food Scene
The arrival of Hearty Hearth has added a new dimension to Boston’s already diverse culinary landscape. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists seeking authentic, wholesome food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Local food bloggers and critics have praised Hearty Hearth for its commitment to tradition and quality. One reviewer writes:
“In a city known for its innovative dining, Hearty Hearth stands out by honoring the past. The food is simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.”
The restaurant has also inspired other local businesses to explore traditional and heritage recipes, creating a renewed appreciation for the roots of New England cuisine.
The Future of Hearty Hearth and Amish Community in Greater Boston
The founders of Hearty Hearth have big plans for the future. They hope to expand their offerings to include cooking classes, community dinners, and seasonal festivals celebrating both Amish and New England traditions. The restaurant is also working to establish a small on-site market where guests can purchase Amish-made goods, such as jams, pickles, and quilts.
As the Amish community in the Boston area grows, so too does the opportunity for cultural exchange and collaboration. The success of Hearty Hearth is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and celebrate shared traditions.
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